San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist Review

Let’s Talk About San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist

The San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist is a drop-in upgrade designed to enhance the ergonomics and functionality of your AR-15. San Tan Tactical, a known name in high-end AR components, aims to provide superior grip and tactile feel through this kit, consisting of an extended mag release button, bolt catch, and forward assist.

I’ve always been a proponent of improving the AR-15 platform’s controls for better manipulation, especially under stress. The factory mil-spec controls can sometimes feel slick or small, particularly with gloves on, so I sought out a kit that would address these issues.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the aggressive San Tan Ultra Grip pattern; it’s immediately apparent that these parts are designed for enhanced purchase. The components felt solid and well-machined, indicative of the quality San Tan Tactical is known for.

I considered options from Strike Industries and Magpul, both of whom offer similar upgrade kits. However, the unique Ultra Grip texture of the San Tan Tactical kit and reputation for quality were the deciding factors. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of improved control and the expectation of premium quality from a San Tan Tactical product.

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Real-World Testing: Putting San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist at an outdoor range during a rainy afternoon. The wet conditions provided an immediate challenge to the grip surfaces of the kit. Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and taking less than 15 minutes.

The difference in tactile feel was immediately noticeable, especially the mag release button and bolt catch. Even with wet gloves, the Ultra Grip pattern provided a secure and confident feel. I experienced no issues with operation and was pleasantly surprised by the improved ergonomics.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use and approximately 1000 rounds fired, the San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear or tear on any of the components, attesting to the durability of the Hardened Steel construction and Hard Coat Anodized finish.

Maintenance is simple; I clean the parts with standard gun cleaning solvents and a brush. The Ultra Grip pattern, while aggressive, doesn’t trap excessive amounts of carbon fouling. Compared to the mil-spec parts, the San Tan Tactical kit offers a significant improvement in ergonomics and reliability, especially in adverse conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist

Specifications

• The San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist includes three key components: an Ultra Grip Extended Mag Release Button, an Ultra Grip Bolt Catch, and an Ultra Grip Forward Assist with spring. These parts are designed to provide enhanced control and manipulation of your AR-15.
• Material: The kit is constructed from Hardened Steel, ensuring durability and resistance to wear. The Hard Coat Anodized finish further protects the parts from corrosion and abrasion.
• Compatibility: The kit is designed to fit all mil-spec upper and lower receivers, ensuring broad compatibility with most AR-15 platforms. This is a significant advantage, as it eliminates concerns about fitment issues.
• Color: The kit is available in Black, providing a clean and professional look that blends well with most AR-15 builds.
• Additional Features: A Plunger Spring Included ensures proper function of the forward assist.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the performance and longevity of the components. The Hardened Steel and Hard Coat Anodized finish guarantee durability, while the mil-spec compatibility ensures ease of installation and use with a wide range of AR-15 rifles.

Performance & Functionality

The San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist excels in its primary function: improving the ergonomics and control of an AR-15. The aggressive Ultra Grip texture provides a secure and confident hold on the magazine release and bolt catch, even when wearing gloves or in wet conditions.

The extended magazine release button makes magazine changes faster and easier, while the enhanced bolt catch facilitates quicker and more reliable bolt manipulation. The forward assist functions as expected, ensuring the bolt is fully seated if needed. A potential weakness is the aggressiveness of the grip pattern, which could be uncomfortable for extended use without gloves.

Overall, the kit meets and exceeds expectations, significantly enhancing the usability and functionality of the AR-15 platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and a durable finish. The Hardened Steel construction and Hard Coat Anodized finish inspire confidence in the longevity of the components.

The ergonomics are significantly improved compared to standard mil-spec parts. The extended magazine release button and enhanced bolt catch are easier to reach and manipulate. There is a slight learning curve to getting used to the more aggressive texture, but the improved control is worth the adjustment.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hardened Steel construction and Hard Coat Anodized finish suggest that the kit will last for many years with proper care. So far, there are no signs of wear or tear after several months of use.

Maintenance is simple; cleaning with standard gun cleaning solvents is sufficient to keep the parts in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The kit itself does not include any additional accessories beyond the components listed. However, due to its mil-spec compatibility, it works seamlessly with a wide range of AR-15 accessories, such as aftermarket triggers, grips, and stocks.

The kit does not directly influence optic choices or barrel modifications, as it focuses solely on improving the ergonomics of the controls.

Pros and Cons of San Tan Tactical STT Ultra Grip Kit With Forward Assist